Sergio Aguero said that Germany are favourites to lift the World Cup in the final at the Estadio do Maracana, but stressed that the underdog tag will help Argentina on Sunday to prevail over the former champions.

Sergio Aguero said that Germany are favourites to lift the World Cup at the Estadio do Maracana, but stressed that the underdog tag will help Argentina on Sunday to prevail over the former champions.

"Germany were always the favourites, along with Brazil, to win the World Cup," Aguero said. "They continue to be so now. We need to play our own game and it suits us that all the pressure is on them."

Three-time Champion Germany hammered hosts Brazil in the semifinals, while Argentina prevailed over the Netherlands on penalties. The South Americans have displayed a solid defensive performance in the tournament so far.

Aguero pointed out that they have to remain cautious from Germany in the final as they are a formidable attacking outfit. The Manchester City striker added that the former champions have to endure pressure from the European powerhouse in the final once again.

"We are in the final and we have to play it and win it in whatever way possible," Aguero said. "We want to have control of the ball, but we know that Germany is a great team that know each other off by heart having played together for many years."

"It is clear that Argentina always go out to win, but sometimes during the game you have to be cautious," he added. "We are all aware of what the objective is and we will leave everything on the field to achieve it."

The 26-year-old striker, who made a comeback in the Argentine squad after missing the Round of 16 and quarterfinals clashes, admitted that it was difficult to gain full fitness in the middle of the tournament.

"When you come back from an injury, it is always in the back of your mind whether it will return," added Aguero. "I had to train and try to be as good as I could be. When you miss three games, especially in a World Cup, you realise what you are missing."

Argentina are hoping for a speedy recovery of Angel di Maria, who missed the semifinal clash because of a thigh injury. The team management has said that they are keeping a close eye on the Real Madrid player as he is not fully fit.

"Di Maria trained at between 60 and 80 per cent on the pitch," said Argentina team spokesman Andres Ventura. "His progress is obvious. He will be observed over the next few days to see if he will be fit."

Meanwhile, midfielder Maxi Rodriguez said that Germany are a strong team but Argentina are capable of beating them in the final.

"Germany is a very strong, aggressive opponent, but if we are at our best we can beat anyone," Rodriguez said. "What I am interested in is leaving as a champion. It is the dream all Argentines have."